The vibrant and traditional Teej Mata procession marked the beginning of the two-day Teej Mahotsav–2025 in Jaipur on Sunday, 27 July. Organized by the Rajasthan Tourism Department, the celebration witnessed a massive turnout of women, locals, and tourists from across the globe.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture Diya Kumari performed the grand Maha Aarti of Teej Mata for the first time at the main stage at Chhoti Chaupad, setting the festive tone for the event.
The event was graced by Governor Shri Haribhau Bagde, Assembly Speaker Shri Vasudev Devnani, Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Ji Maharaj, MLAs Balmukund Acharya and Gopal Sharma, Principal Secretary Rajesh Yadav, Tourism Commissioner Smt. Rukmani Riyad, Jaipur Municipal Corporation (Heritage) Mayor Kusum Yadav, and Mayor of Jaipur Greater Saumya Gurjar. A large number of women, tourists, media personnel, and social media influencers also gathered for the Aarti.
Teej Mata’s Royal Procession Mesmerizes All
The grand procession commenced from Janani Deori at the City Palace, passing through Tripolia Gate, Chhoti Chaupad, and Chaugan Stadium, before culminating at Taltora Paundrik Park.
The spectacle included a vibrant display of Rajasthani folk culture, with around 200 folk artists showcasing traditional performances. The procession featured Rajasthani tableaux, horses and royal carriages, decorated elephants, camels, bulls, and bands playing shehnai and drums, reflecting the rich heritage of Rajasthan.
Key highlights included:
- The first tableau of Kachhi Ghori by Banwarilal Jat
- The Gair dance from Shekhawati region
- Bahurupiya artists portraying characters like Narad, Krishna, and Shiva
- International performer Purnanath Sapera and Kalbelia dancers
- Chari dance and Hela Khayal performances
- Puppetry by international puppeteer Raju Bhaat
- Folk artist Tejpal Nagauri and his troupe from Nagaur
The warrior spirit of Rajasthan was beautifully depicted with bullock carts, sword-bearing men in traditional attire, and the majestic peacock dance. The highlight came as Teej Mata’s red carriage appeared through Tripolia Gate, greeted by cheers from the packed crowd on both sides.
Women’s Participation and Religious Ceremonies
A major attraction was the women’s tableau, where women clad in colorful lehriya sarees danced with pots balanced on their heads—symbolizing Rajasthani tradition and grace. Significantly, women priests performed the puja of Teej Mata during the procession, marking a powerful cultural moment.
Statewide Broadcast and Cultural Promotion
This vibrant festival was broadcast live on various television channels and displayed on 200 large screens across Rajasthan, with support from the Department of Information Technology (DoIT).
The Teej Mahotsav not only celebrated Rajasthan’s deep-rooted traditions but also presented its unique art and culture to the world, thanks to the spirited performances and state-led promotion of tourism and culture.